What Exactly are Balusters?

The word "baluster" comes from the Italian word "balaustra" which means "pomegranate flower" due to the baluster having a very similar look to a half opened pomegranate flower.

Balusters have also been compared to brass or silver candlesticks, and referred to as an upright furniture support. In staircases, balusters are meant to echo the design of the newels all the way through - resembling a game of telephone. The Newel sets the tone for the overall staircase and the balusters carry the tone in the design (while a bit less elaborate than the newel designs) all the way through the staircase.